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Q My brothers and I have inherited a very unique and ornate Pleyel upright piano from our mother’s estate. It was a gift to my mother from her father, our grandfather. He purchased it back in the 1920s from his neighbour in Forest Hill, Toronto, who was an art and antique dealer. It stands 132 cm high, 122 cm wide and 61 cm deep (52 x 48 x 24 inches). The piano is not in a playable condition but the interior is original. There are 79 keys – many of which need to be rebuilt. We would appreciate your opinion on an estimated value. Thank you.
John, Waterloo, Ont.
A Ignace Pleyel, born in Strasbourg, France, was an accomplished pianist founding his company in Paris at the end of 1807. Using top performers of the times to promote business, including Frederic Chopin, the company grew to be a prominent maker. This piano, made around the middle of the 19th century, has many 18th-century traits including the opulence and form of styles from King Louis XVI and the Sevres porcelain works. Figural gilt bronze applications and Sevres-styled porcelain plaques with serenade scenes and floral bouquets set against wonderful veneer patterns are in fine condition and outstanding. This piano probably has as much value to set the stage as well as being performed with onstage. It would be a worthwhile but expensive restoration that will give it a value beginning at the ‘five-figure’ point. It is a rare and wonderful objet d’art!
Q I am in possession of two of these slicers that were found in the basement at my parent’s restaurant back in the early 1980s. Upon cleaning one, I have discovered that all the moving parts still work (including the slice thickness gauge). It is cast with ‘Arcadia Manufacturing Co. Newark, New York. Pat’d. 1885-1891.’ It measures 53 x 25 x 10 cm (21 x 10 x 4 inches). When it is set up, the platform is 18 cm wide (7 inches). Would you please provide an estimate of what this might be worth.
Caroline, Ottawa
A There are many suggestions as to what this was used to slice. Meat seems to be the intended one – possibly deli-style. An ad on an envelope with a cancellation date of 1898 called it a ‘combination slicing machine’ with various meat types shown alongside the operator. There is great interest in kitchen tools, which goes along with the huge interest in food preparation these days. Arcadia/Newark – sharing geography in Wayne County was a very industrious and rich area for growth. You can count on a slice worth $150.
Q I have a complete set for eight of Royal Crown Derby pattern dishes, including a gravy boat, large platter and carving set, which I’m thinking of selling. I’ve featured the teapot to start with and am looking for your thoughts and advice about this pattern and its value. Thank you very much.
Diann, Kemptville, Ont.
A Your blue and white set is in the Mikado pattern – one that has remained popular for many years. The Derby Porcelain Works began around 1750 in Derby, England, and has been one of the prominent firms producing porcelain in England. Blue and white is always favoured and the pattern is rich with historical Asian motifs including tree peonies, Prunus blossoms and robed figures in landscapes. The literal meaning of Mikado refers to the gate of the Japanese Imperial palace. Your favoured ’boat-shaped teapot is based on Georgian 1830s silver table items. The teapot alone is worth $150 today.
John Sewell is an antiques and fine art appraiser. To submit an item to his column, go to the ‘Contact John’ page at www.johnsewellantiques.ca. Please measure your piece, say when and how you got it, what you paid and list any identifying marks. A high-resolution jpeg photo must also be included. (Only email submissions accepted.)
* Appraisal values are estimates only.*